For more information on ROBOTC's Virtual World program, see our [http://www.robotc.net/download/rvw/specifications.php Computer Requirements and Performance page.]

ROBOTC will not run natively in any other operating system other than Microsoft Windows. ROBOTC will run with a Virtualization client on a Apple Macintosh. ROBOTC has been tested with VMWare Fusion, Parallels Desktop, and Apple's Boot Camp. You will still need to download/install device drivers found on your purchased CD or on the ROBOTC website.

ROBOTC will not run natively in any other operating system other than Microsoft Windows. ROBOTC will run with a Virtualization client on a Apple Macintosh. ROBOTC has been tested with VMWare Fusion, Parallels Desktop, and Apple's Boot Camp. You will still need to download/install device drivers found on your purchased CD or on the ROBOTC website.

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<br />

<br />

−

== Uninstalling and Installing ROBOTC ==

+

== Downloading ROBOTC ==

−

=== Uninstalling ===

+

{|

−

{|width="740px"

+

|Before we start programming in ROBOTC, we need to first download and install the client. This can be done by navigating to ROBOTC's website ( https://www.robotc.net) and selecting the 'Downloads' tab.

+

|-

+

|1) From the ROBOTC website, select the individual robotics platform you wish to program on. If you want to use multiple platforms or accidentally download the wrong version, you can manually activate and choose another platform thorugh the ROBOTC program. When you get to the correct platform page, click on the 'Download ROBOTC for X version x.xx' to start the download process:

+

|-

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|<br />

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|-

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|[[File:Install_Download_Firefox.png]]

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|-

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|<br />

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|-

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|[[File:Install_Download_IE.png]]

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|-

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|<br />

|-

|-

−

|You must uninstall your previous version of ROBOTC before upgrading to the newest version of ROBOTC.<br />

+

|2) At this point click the 'Save' button to start downloading ROBOTC. You may get a warning pop-up from either Windows, your antivirus program, or both. This is to warn you that some programs downloaded from the internet can be malicious and to use care before running them; click allow to start the download.

+

|-

+

|<br />

+

|}

−

To uninstall ROBOTC, follow these steps:<br />

+

== Installing and Uninstalling ROBOTC ==

−

+

−

1. Open the Control Panel from your "Start Menu"<br />

+

−

[[File:uninstall1.gif]]

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−

+

−

+

−

2. Inside of the Control Panel, select "Add or Remove Programs"<br />

+

−

[[File:uninstall2.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

3. Navigate through the "Add or Remove Programs" list until you find your version of ROBOTC that you wish to uninstall. Press the "Remove button"<br />

+

−

[[File:uninstall3.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

4. Windows will start the uninstall process. When the window below disappears and you are returned to the "Add or Remove Programs" list, ROBOTC has been successfully uninstalled.<br />

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−

[[File:uninstall4.gif]]

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−

|}

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−

<br />

+

=== Installing ===

=== Installing ===

−

{|width="740px"

+

{|

+

|1) Once the program is done downloading, navigate to the Downloads folder on your computer and start the ROBOTC installer. You may have to right click on the installer and select the "Run as Administrator" depending on individual computer restrictions; ROBOTC must be installed with administrator privileges.

|-

|-

−

|To Install the latest version of ROBOTC, follow these steps:

+

|<br />

−

+

−

1. Double click on the ROBOTC installer. You will be presented with the Installshield installer for ROBOTC. Click "Next" to proceed.<br />

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−

[[File:install1.gif]]

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−

+

−

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−

2. Before you can proceed, you must read over the accept the End User License Agreement. Click "I accept" and then the "Next" button to proceed.<br />

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−

[[File:install2.gif]]

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−

+

−

+

−

3. Choose where you would like to install ROBOTC to. By default, ROBOTC is installed to your "Program Files" folder. Click "Next" to proceed.<br />

+

−

[[File:install3.gif]]

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−

+

−

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−

4. The installer will ask you to confirm your settings. If everything looks correct, click "Install" to being the installation process.<br />

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[[File:install4.gif]]

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−

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−

5. The installer will begin copying files from the installer to your computer. Please wait until this is complete.<br />

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[[File:install5.gif]]

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−

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−

6. When the installation is complete, the install will inform you of this. Click "Finish" to complete your install.<br />

|'''To continue using ROBOTC past the 30 day trial period''', you must purchase a ROBOTC license and then activate the license on each computer.

+

|[[File:Install_Normal.png]]

−

+

−

+

−

To activate ROBOTC, you will need the '''License ID and Password''' that was sent to you during the purchase process.

+

−

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−

*If you purchased a ROBOTC license online, the License ID and Password were sent to the email address specified.

+

−

*If you ordered the CD-ROM version of ROBOTC, the License ID and Password are printed on the CD label.

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−

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−

'''If you are Activating the ROBOTC license on computers with internet access, follow the Activation instructions below.''' If you are activating the ROBOTC license on computers without internet access, skip to Activate by Web instructions.

+

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'''''NOTE:''' ROBOTC must be activated on each individual computer.''

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−

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−

Follow these steps to activate on a computer with internet access:

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1. Open ROBOTC and select "Activate ROBOTC" from the start-up prompt.<br />

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[[File:Activate_Main.gif]]

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2. Select "Activate ROBOTC for MINDSTORMS Online"<br />

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[[File:Activate_Selection_Online.gif]]

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−

3. Enter in your License ID and Password that you received via emaill. Click the "Continue" button to proceed.<br />

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[[File:Activate_Online_LicenseIDPass.gif]]

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4. ROBOTC will communicate with the activation server via the internet to verify your License ID and Password.<br />

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[[File:Activate_Processing.gif]]

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5. ROBOTC is activated and ready for use. Click Continue to use ROBOTC for MINDSTORMS.<br />

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[[File:Activate_Success.gif]]

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|}

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<br />

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−

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−

== Activate by Web ==

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{|width="740px"

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|-

|-

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|'''Follow these steps to activate on a computer without internet access:

+

|<br />

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−

Note: You will need to use a separate computer with Internet access in step 4 at this activation process. You must repeat this process on each computer without internet access.

+

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1. Open ROBOTC and select "Activate ROBOTC" from the menu.<br />

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[[File:Activate_Main.gif]]

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2. Select "Activate by Web"<br />

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[[File:Activate_Selection_Web.gif]]

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3. Two user codes will be displayed. Copy both of these down. Take these codes with you to a separate computer with Internet access.<br />

+

−

[[File:Activate_Web_UserCodes.gif]]

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−

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4. At a separate computer with internet access, visit http://www.robotc.net/register. Enter your License ID and Password that you received via email and click "Next."<br />

8. ROBOTC will be activated and ready for use. Click Continue to use ROBOTC.<br />

+

−

[[File:Activate_Success.gif]]

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−

|}

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<br />

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−

+

−

== Select Platform Type ==

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{|width="740px"

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|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC for MINDSTORMS has support for four different platforms:

−

*LEGO Mindstorms RCX

−

*LEGO Mindstorms NXT

−

*LEGO Mindstorms NXT + TETRIX

−

*Robot Algebra (NXT)

−

Before you use ROBOTC, make sure to select which platform you are currently using.

−

−

'''Changing Platform Type:'''

−

Open the "Robot" menu in ROBOTC and hover your cursor over the "Platform Type" menu option. This will open up the platform select menu. Select the platform you wish you use with ROBOTC. You can change the platform type at any time.<br />

−

[[File:selectplatform.jpg]]

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|}

−

<br />

−

−

== Getting Started with Arduino ==

−

=== Selcting your Arduino Board ===

−

{|width="740px"

|-

|-

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|Before you being programming your Arduino in ROBOTC, you'll need to let ROBOTC know which Arduino board you are using. To do this, go to the '''Robot''' menu and select '''Platform Type''' &rarr '''Arduino''' &rarr '''Standard Arduino''' and choose your board from one of the choices.<br /><br />

+

|2) Before you can proceed, you must read over and accept the End User License Agreement. If you agree to the End User Agreement, check the "I accept" and then the "Next" button to continue the installation.

−

[[File:gettingstarted-arduino-1.png]]<br />

+

−

+

−

'''''Note: If you are using an Arduino 2560, make sure you take a look at the follow page on how to [http://www.robotc.net/wiki/ARDUINO_MEGA_Update_Bootloader upgrade your bootloader].'''''

|Now that your board and communication port are both select, it's time to download the ROBOTC Firmware! Go to the '''Robot''' menu and select '''Download Firmware''' and then choose '''Standard File'''. Your firmware will begin downloading instantly!<br /><br />

+

|[[File:Install_End_User.png]]

−

[[File:gettingstarted-arduino-3.png]]<br />

+

−

+

−

'''''Note: Downloading ROBOTC's Firmware will not remove the ability to use the Arduino "Wiring" Open Source language.'''''

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Opening Sample Programs ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC has a number of sample programs (and more added every version) for you to learn how to program and use your Arduino board. You can open a sample program by going to the '''File''' menu and selecting '''Open Sample Program'''. Once you're in the open sample programs directory, make sure you choose your '''''Correct'' Sample Program Folder for your Arduino.'''<br /><br />

+

|<br />

−

{|

+

−

|-

+

−

|[[File:gettingstarted-arduino-4.png]]

+

−

|valign="middle"|&rarr

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−

|[[File:gettingstarted-arduino-5.png]]

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−

|}

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−

|}

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<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Running a Program ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|Once your sample program has been opened, you can download it to your Arduino controller by going to the '''Robot''' menu and selecting '''Compile and Download'''.<br /><br />

+

|3) Next, select where you would like ROBOTC to install to. The default location is C:/Program Files (x86)/Robomatter Inc/ROBOTC Development Environment.

−

[[File:gettingstarted-arduino-6.png]]<br />

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== More Resources ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|During the BETA period for ROBOTC for Arduino, take a look at our support documenting including functions reference, known issues and other support documents available on the [[Main_Page|ROBOTC.net Wiki]]

+

|<br />

−

+

−

+

−

+

−

Join the ROBOTC for Arduino discussion on the [http://www.robotc.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=62 ROBOTC.net Arduino Forums]

+

−

+

−

+

−

+

−

Additional help and support can be found at [http://www.robotc.net] or by e-mailing support@robotc.net

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

== Getting Started with NXT and TETRIX ==

+

−

=== Download Firmware ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC requires a different firmware from the other programming languages available for the NXT. This firmware is what unlocks most of the advanced functionality found in ROBOTC.

+

|[[File:Install_Select_Directory.png]]

−

+

−

You can update the firmware on the NXT directly from the ROBOTC application. To update the firmware, follow these instructions:

+

−

+

−

'''Prerequisite: Make sure that your NXT is connected to your computer via USB and is powered on with a fully charged battery.'''

+

−

+

−

1. Open the "Robot" menu and select "Download Firmware."<br />

+

−

[[File:download_firmware_menu_option.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

2. Since NXT is set as the Platform Type, the "NXT Brick Download" screen will appear. From this screen you can rename your NXT and update the firmware. Make sure that your NXT appears under the "NXT Bricks Currently Connected via USB" list before proceeding. If the NXT does not appear, make sure it is connected via USB, powered on, and that the NXT USB driver is installed. Then click the "Refresh Lists" button to see if your brick can be found.

4. After clicking the "F/W Download" button, you will see the "Select NXT firmware file" file selection screen. ROBOTC will automatically open to the Firmware folder and show you all of the available firmwares available for the NXT. NXT firmware files have the extension ".rfw". Select the highest numbered firmware file that follows the "NXTXXXX.rfw" format. Once that firmware file is selected, click the "Open" button to start downloading the firmware to the NXT.

+

−

+

−

Note: Always select the highest version number available with the "NXT" prefix.<br />

+

−

[[File:nxt_select_firmware.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

5. As the firmware is downloading, your NXT will shut itself off and turn itself back on. Once the firmware has been successfully downloaded, you should see "Firmware download completed" on the "NXT Brick Download" screen, under the "Message Log". Your NXT is now ready to be used with ROBOTC.<br />

+

−

[[File:nxt_firmware_complete.jpg]]

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Sample Programs ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|OOne of the best ways to start working with ROBOTC is to look at already developed programs. ROBOTC for Mindstorms comes with over 150 sample programs to help new programmers learn how to program their robots.

+

|<br />

−

+

−

To access the sample programs, go to the "File" menu and select "Open Sample Program".<br />

+

−

[[File:opensample.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

The sample programs folder is organized by topic. ROBOTC will automatically open the sample programs folder for the robot platform you have selected.<br />

+

−

[[File:openmenu.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Just double click on one of the sample programs to open it up and learn more about ROBOTC programming.<br />

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Compiling and Downloading ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC is an "Integrated Development Environment." ROBOTC has a custom text editor to assist the programmer by color coding different potions of code to differentiate between integers, reserved words, functions and parameters.<br />

+

|4) The installer will ask you to confirm your settings. If everything looks correct, click "Install" to being the installation process. The installer will then begin copying files from the installer to your computer. Please wait until this is complete.<br />

−

[[File:ROBOTC_IDE.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

ROBOTC also contains a compiler for turning user generated code into a byte-code language that the different robot platforms can understand. To run the compiler, go to the "Robot" menu and select "Recompile Program" or hit F7 on your keyboard.<br />

+

−

[[File:recompile.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

When the compiler runs, ROBOTC will check your program for errors and warnings that would cause it to run improperly on the robot. Rather than send broken code to your robot, ROBOTC informs you of these errors.

+

−

+

−

In the example below:

+

−

*The reserved word 'motor' was incorrectly typed as 'Motor', generating a warning. A warning tells the user that they've created an error, but ROBOTC is able to correct it when the program is sent to the robot. A program with warnings will compile successfully, but users should use good programming practice to avoid warnings. Warnings are denoted by a yellow "X".

+

−

*The code on line 5 is missing a semicolon, which is generating an error. An error will prevent the program from being sent to the controller. In this example, ROBOTC is informing the user they left a semicolon out of their program which is preventing the program from being compiled. Errors are denoted by a red "X".<br />

+

−

[[Image:errors.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once your program has successfully compiled, you can send the program to the controller by selecting the "Compile and Download Program" option under the "Robot" menu or hitting F5 on your keyboard.<br />

+

−

[[Image:compile_download.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once the download starts, a "Download Progress" window will appear. This window shows the transfer status of the compiled byte-code to the robot.

+

−

+

−

Once the download finishes, the built-in debugger launch. Some windows will launch, such as the "NXT Device Control Display" and the "Program Debug" window. Others may launch docked into the interface, such as the "Global Variables" screen. You can start your programs execution by clicking the "Start" button on the "Program Debug" window. Learn more about these windows in the 'Debugger' section of the help file.<br />

+

−

[[Image:debugger.png]]

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Test I2C ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC has a very powerful utility for testing digital sensors on the NXT. Digital sensors are those that support the industry standard I2C protocol for communications between the NXT and the sensor. The utility allows you to easily test an I2C sensor on the NXT. A screen shot of the utility is shown below.<br />

+

|<br />

−

[[File:I2C_Overall.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

[[File:SensorPort_Config.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Sensor Port Configuration'''

+

−

Use these drop down menu items to set the sensor type and sensor mode for each of the four sensor ports. When this utility is first opened, it will interrogate the NXT to get the current settings of these values. The “Fast I/O” check-mark is read-only. It is calculated from the type of sensor. If you want to test a LEGO ultrasonic tester with this utility, do not set the type to “SONAR”. This will activate the built-in firmware device driver which will periodically poll the value of the ultra-sonic sensor. The device driver does not expect any other application to send I2C messages to the sensor! Instead set the type to “I2C Custom Slow”.<br />

+

−

[[File:Firmware_AllSensors.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''All I2C Fast Sensor/All I2C Slow Sensors'''

+

−

Use either of these two buttons to quickly configure all four sensor ports as a custom I2C sensor. “Fast” sensors will use the ROBOTC firmware capability to transmit I2C messages at five times the speed found in the standard LEGO supplied firmware. Fast mode generally works with all third party sensors, slow mode is required for the LEGO ultrasonic sensor. The difference is that most 3rd party sensors include a microprocessor that has I2C messaging support in hardware and can keep up with the faster ROBOTC messaging rate. Slow sensors have a “bit-banged’ implementation and cannot keep up.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Firmware Version'''

+

−

Configure these parameters for either standard LEGO firmware or ROBOTC firmware. Standard firmware does not support fast mode signaling and will always try to send a I2C message three times before reporting failures. Trying three times can easily mask intermittent transient errors. The number of total tries can be user configured in the ROBOTC firmware. The default value is a total of three tries. Setting the number of retries to zero is useful to ensure transient errors are not masked.

+

−

+

−

+

−

[[File:I2C_message.gif]]

+

−

+

−

'''Port'''

+

−

Selects which of the four ports on the NXT the message will be sent to.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Output Message'''

+

−

The hexadecimal bytes of the message to be sent to the sensor

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Reply Len (Length)'''

+

−

The length of the reply expected from the sensor in bytes

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Reply'''

+

−

The reply returned from the sensor in hedadecimal (and converted to ASCII)

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Select'''

+

−

A checkbox to determine if the selected message should be included or excluded from the test cycle.<br />

+

−

[[File: Verify_Once_Stats.gif]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Once/Continuous Buttons'''

+

−

These buttons select whether a single test cycle or continuous testing should be performed.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Verify Write'''

+

−

If checked, the NXT will send an ACK message to check if the I2C message was successfully sent to the NXT. The "Failed" text box will return a count of the number of failed messages.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Count'''

+

−

A text box containing the number of messages sent in total.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Bus Errors'''

+

−

Number of bus errors encountered during error transmission. Bus error is detected by the I2C firmware and usually indicates an attempt to send an I2C message to a sensor that does not support I2C messaging.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''No Reply'''

+

−

Number of messages sent to the I2C message that did not recieve a reply from the sensor.

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Diff Msg (Different Message)'''

+

−

Number of different messages recieved from the I2C sensor... this counter will not increment when the same message is recieved from the I2C sensor in succession.

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

== Getting Started with the VEX PIC ==

+

−

=== Configuring Serial Port ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|When using ROBOTC for the first time, you may need to specify which Serial Port is used to communicate with your VEX. To change the Serial Port, follow these steps:

''Be sure to also select the correct Platform with the "Platform" drop-down menu.''<br />

+

−

[[File:robotc_preference_port.png]]

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Download Master Firmware ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|The Master Firmware for the VEX is sperate from the ROBOTC Firmware. The Master firmware controls all of the lower-level controls of the VEX controller (such as serial and radio communication). This firmware is supplied by Innovation FIRST and has not been modified by ROBOTC. Every VEX Microcontroller is preloaded with a version of the master firmware, but downloading the latest version will ensure that your robot is compatible with the latest hardware available.

+

|<br />

−

+

−

+

−

'''To update the VEX Master Firmware:'''<br />

+

−

1. Open ROBOTC for IFI. Ensure that your VEX controller is connected and turned on.<br />

+

−

+

−

+

−

2. Go to View > Preferences > Detailed Preferences. On the Platform tab, ensure that VEX 0.5 Microchip is selected as the Platform, alsong with the Prolific USB-to-Serial option as the Communication Port.<br />

2. A Download Progress window will appear. When the window closes, the download is complete.<br />

+

−

[[File:vex-firm-download.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

3. Power cycle the VEX so that the new firmware will take effect.<br />

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Sample Programs ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|One of the best ways to start working with ROBOTC and learning how to program is to look at already developed programs. ROBOTC comes with over 75 sample programs to help the programmer learn how to program their robotics controllers.

+

|[[File:Install_Complete.png]]

−

+

|-

−

To access these sample programs, open the "Sample Programs" folder by going to the "File" menu and selecting "Open Sample Program."<br />

+

|<br />

−

[[File:sampleprograms_menu.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Inside of the sample programs folder, there are a number of samples organized by topic. ROBOTC will automatically open the sample programs folder of the platform you currently have selected.<br />

+

−

[[File:sampleprogram_files.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Just double click on one of the sample programs to open it up and learn more about ROBOTC programming.<br />

+

−

|}

+

−

<br />

+

−

+

−

=== Compiling and Downloading ===

+

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC is considered to be an "Integrated Development Environment." This means that ROBOTC has a custom text editor for developing code that will assist the programmer by color coding different potions of code to differentiate between integers, reserved words, functions and parameters.<br />

+

|6) Right-Click on the ROBOTC icon and select "Run as Administrator" to run ROBOTC as an administrator (assuming the user account has administrator privileges). You will only need to do this one time.<br />

−

[[File:robotc_gui.png]]

+

|-

−

+

|<br />

−

+

|-

−

ROBOTC also contains a compiler for turning this user generated code in a byte-code language that the different controller platforms can understand. To run the compiler, access the compile function from the "Robot" menu.<br />

+

|[[File:Install_Run_Admin.png]]

−

[[File:compile_program.png]]

+

|-

−

+

|<br />

−

+

|-

−

When the compiler runs, ROBOTC will check your program for errors and warnings that would cause your program to not run properly on the robot. Rather than send this broken code to your robot, ROBOTC will inform you of these errors so they can be corrected.

+

|Depending on which platform you are installing, ROBOTC may also install additional drivers unique to each platform. If for any reason the drivers are not downloaded and installed properly they can be downloaded and installed manually from the [http://www.robotc.net/download/ ROBOTC website.]

−

+

−

In the example below:

+

−

*The reserved word 'motor' was incorrectly typed as 'Motor', generating a warning. A warning tells the user that they've created an error, but ROBOTC is able to correct this error itself when the program is sent to the controller. A program with warning will compile successfully, but users should use good programming practice to avoid warnings. Warnings are denoted by a yellow "X".

+

−

*The code on line 5 is missing a semicolon, which is generating an error. An error will prevent the program from being sent to the controller. ROBOTC will do its best to explain what the error to assist the user. In this example, ROBOTC is informing the user they left a semicolon off a line of their program which is preventing the program from being compiled. Errors are denoted by a red "X".<br />

+

−

[[Image:errors_and_warnings.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once your program has successfully compiled, you can send the program to the controller by clicking the "Compile and Download Program" option under the "Robot" menu. Note: Your robot must be turned on and connected to the computer before you can download a program.<br />

+

−

[[Image:download.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once the download starts, a "Download Progress" bar will appear. This bar will show the status of the transfer of the compiled byte-code to the controller.<br />

+

−

[[Image:SS-2010-10-14_11.36.04.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once the download starts, a "Download Progress" bar will appear. This bar will show the status of the transfer of the compiled byte-code to the controller.<br />

+

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_14.05.46.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Once the download finishes, ROBOTC's built in debugger will be launched. There will be a number of windows that launch, such as the Global Variables window, the Devices window and the Program Debug window. You can start your programs execution by clicking the "Start" button on the "Program Debug" window. Learn more about these windows in the 'Debugger' section of the help file.<br />

+

−

[[File:compiler.png]]

+

|}

|}

<br />

<br />

−

== Getting Started with the VEX CORTEX ==

+

=== Uninstalling ===

−

=== Download Master Firmware ===

+

{|

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

+

|To uninstall ROBOTC, follow the steps below:<br />

+

|-

+

|<br />

+

|-

+

|1) Open the Control Panel from your Windows "Start Menu"<br />

+

|-

+

|[[File:Uninstall_Control_Panel.png]]

|-

|-

−

|The Master Firmware for the VEX 2.0 Cortex is sperate from the ROBOTC Firmware. The Master firmware controls all of the lower-level controls of the VEX 2.0 Cortex controller (such as VEXnet Communication). This firmware is supplied by Innovation FIRST and has not been modified by ROBOTC. Every VEX 2.0 Cortex Microcontroller is preloaded with a version of the master firmware, but downloading the latest version will ensure that your robot is compatible with the latest hardware available.

+

|2) Inside of the Control Panel, select "Programs -> Uninstall a Program" or "Add or Remove Programs" (depending on view settings).<br />

−

+

|-

−

'''To download and update the VEX 2.0 Cortex Master Firmware:'''

+

|3) Navigate through the "Add or Remove Programs" list until you find the version of ROBOTC that you wish to uninstall. Press the "Uninstall" button.<br />

Plug one end of the USB A-to-A Cable into a USB port on your computer. Do not plug the other end into the Cortex. Note: The order detailed in these steps is crucial. When the Cortex is powered on, it immediately tries to determine how it is connected (over VEXnet, USB, or no connection). Some power is provided to the Cortex over USB, which will allow it to determine that it is connected to your computer.<br />

+

||[[File:Uninstall_ROBOTC.png]]

−

[[File:01.png]]

+

|-

−

+

|<br />

−

+

|-

−

Use a paperclip or a 5/64 Allen Wrench to press and hold in the CONFIG button on the Cortex.<br />

+

|4) Windows will start the uninstall process. When the window below disappears and you are returned to the "Add or Remove Programs" list, ROBOTC has been successfully uninstalled.<br />

−

[[File:02.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

While pressing in the CONFIG button, connect the other end of the USB A-to-A cable to the USB port on the VEX Cortex. Keep the CONFIG button pressed in for an additional 5 seconds.<br />

+

−

[[File:03.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Remove the Allen Wrench or paperclip, releasing the CONFIG button. After a few seconds, the ROBOT and GAME lights should blink green.<br />

+

−

[[File:04.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Make sure a 7.2V Robot battery is connected and move the POWER switch on the Cortex to the ON position. Your setup should resemble the one in this picture, with the USB A-to-A cable connecting your computer and the VEX Cortex, and the 7.2 Volt Robot Battery powering the VEX Cortex. Note (Optional): You can connect two motors to MOTOR Ports 2 and 3 for testing a sample program later in the sequence. You can connect 3-wire motors directly, or the newer 2-wire motors using Motor Controller 29 cables.<br />

+

−

[[File:06.jpg]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Platform Type and Communication Port'''<br />

+

−

Specify that you are using the Cortex and how it is connected to your computer in ROBOTC. Go to Robot > Platform Type > Innovation First (IFI) and select "VEX 2.0 Cortex" or "Natural Language (VEX Cortex)".<br />

+

−

[[File:platform.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Then go to View and choose Select Communication Port.<br />

+

−

[[File:comm_port.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

A new window will appear. From the Communications Port dropdown list, make sure that "Automatic Selection" or the "USB Wired Cable" option are selected. If you plan on programming your robot wirelessly over VEXnet, keeping "Automatic Selection" chosen is recommended. Press OK to save your choice.<br />

A Download Progress window will appear and begin the download process.<br />

+

−

[[File:download_master.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

When the window closes, the firmware download is complete. A ROBOTC Message will appear, and remind you to also download the ROBOTC Firmware.<br />

+

−

[[File:master_success.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Note: You only need to download the Master CPU Firmware once, when you first start using a VEX Cortex with ROBOTC, or when you upgrade to a newer version of ROBOTC. Switching programs or download methods does not require a re-download.

+

−

+

−

Once the Master CPU Firmware finishes downloading, the Cortex will be recognized as a new device, and Windows may ask you to verify the software installation for the Cortex. Press Continue or Continue Anyway to complete the installation.<br />

+

−

[[File:new_hw.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Note: Once the device driver installation is complete, you should no longer need Administrative privileges on your computer; you should be able to download Master CPU Firmware, ROBOTC firmware, and ROBOTC programs in a permissions-restricted account. Only future updates to ROBOTC and theVEX Cortex Device Driver will require Administrative privileges.

+

|}

|}

<br />

<br />

−

+

=== Building Licenses ===

−

=== Download ROBOTC Firmware ===

+

{|

−

{|width="740px"

+

|-

+

|There is a special type of ROBOTC license called a Building License . These licenses do not require an online activation but rather have a unique building license file that must be installed with the software in order for ROBOTC to work properly. When you order a building license you will be sent an email with a unique building license file.

+

|-

+

|<br />

+

|-

+

|To activate ROBOTC with a building license, download and run the installer as normal. Once the program is installed, copy the building license file into the ROBOTC directory (typically C:/Program Files (x86)/Robomatter Inc/ROBOTC Developement Environment).

+

|-

+

|<br />

+

|-

+

|[[File:Building_License_Location.png]]

+

|-

+

|One of the advantages of building licenses is that they help make automated installs easy. To roll out ROBOTC to multiple computers using a building license, make sure the base image has ROBOTC installed and the building license files in the correct directory. As long as those two conditions are met, ROBOTC should be active on each computer the image is rolled out to with no futher action required.

+

|-

+

|<br />

+

|-

+

|There is, however, an exception. If ROBOTC is being run from a centralized network, each computer that needs to access ROBOTC must also install a Network Dependencies package (available from the ROBOTC downloads page). The building license file must also be properly installed on the network in order for networked computers to access ROBOTC.

|-

|-

−

|The ROBOTC Firmware enables you to download ROBOTC programs to your robot and utilize the various debugger windows.

−

−

'''Prerequisites:'''

−

*Connect the Cortex to your computer (over VEXnet or USB) and power it on

A Download Progress window will appear and begin the download process. <br />

−

[[File:robotc_download-vex2-tut.png]]

−

−

−

Once the Download Progress window closes, the ROBOTC Firmware download is complete. Your VEX Cortex is now ready to be programmed in ROBOTC over the USB A-to-A cable.<br />

−

[[File:robotc_success.png]]

−

−

−

Note: You only need to download the ROBOTC Firmware once, when you first start using a VEX Cortex with ROBOTC, or when you upgrade to a newer version of ROBOTC. You do not need to re-download the ROBOTC firmware every time you want to download code.

−

−

If you are also using the VEXnet Joysticks, you will need to update its firmware and establish a wireless VEXnet link between it and the Cortex.

|}

|}

−

<br />

−

=== Download VEXnet Joystick Firmware ===

+

== Activate Online ==

−

{|width="740px"

+

{|

|-

|-

−

|The VEXnet Joystick includes two joysticks (each having an X and Y-axis), 8 buttons on the front, and 4 additional trigger buttons on the top. Inside, there is also 3-Axis accelerometer, capable of providing X-Y-Z acceleration values. Values from the joysticks, buttons, and accelerometer are sent as a constant stream of information over VEXnet to the robot, enabling a user to control the robot in real-time.

+

|'''To continue using ROBOTC past the 30 day trial period''', you must purchase a ROBOTC license and then activate the license on each computer.

−

You will need to update the firmware on the VEXnet Joystick to ensure that it will operates correctly.

To activate ROBOTC, you will need the '''License ID and Password''' that was sent to you during the purchase process.

−

The process of placing your VEXnet Joystick in Bootload mode is easier if you start by plugging one end of the USB A-to-A cable into the device. Keep the VEXnet Joystick turned OFF, and do not plug the other end of the USB A-to-A cable in yet.<br />

+

−

[[File:joy01.jpg]]

+

+

*If you purchased a ROBOTC license online, the License ID and Password were sent to the email address specified.

+

*If you ordered the CD-ROM version of ROBOTC, the License ID and Password are printed on the CD label.

−

Use a paperclip to press and hold in the CONFIG button on the front of the VEXnet Joystick.<br />

+

'''If you are Activating the ROBOTC license on computers with internet access, follow the Activation instructions below.'''

−

[[File:joy02.JPG]]

+

+

'''''NOTE:''' ROBOTC must be activated on each individual computer. ROBOTC can no longer be activated offline; the computers must be activated with a working internet connection. Once activation is complete, the computers do not need to remain online to stay activated.''

−

Keeping the CONFIG button pressed in, connect the other end of the USB A-to-A cable to your computer.<br />

−

[[File:joy03.JPG]]

+

Follow these steps to activate on a computer with internet access:

−

After a few seconds, release the CONFIG button. The ROBOT and GAME lights will blink green.<br />

+

1) Open ROBOTC and navigate to the Help menu. From there, select 'Manage Licenses -> Add License'. If you do not already have a ROBOTC license, you may purchase one by clicking the 'Purchase License' option. <br />

A Download Progress window will appear and begin the download process.<br />

−

[[File:download_master.png]]

−

−

−

When the window closes, the firmware download is complete.<br />

−

[[File:joysticksuccess.png]]

−

−

−

Note: You only need to download the VEXnet Joystick Firmware once, when you first start using it with ROBOTC, or when you upgrade to a newer version of ROBOTC.

−

|}

<br />

<br />

+

2) From the Manage License menu, select the 'Add License' button. Note that there is also a greyed out option for "Deactivate License". This allows you to deactivate the license (where applicable; not all licenses can be deactivated) and reactivate it on another computer. Once a license is activated, you can also see the registration information and create a desktop icon for ROBOTC by clikcing on their respective buttons.<br />

−

=== Setting up VEXnet Communication ===

−

{|width="740px"

−

|-

−

|In this section, you will learn how to pair a VEX Cortex Microcontroller to a VEXnet Remote Control, allowing them to communicate over VEXnet. This section assumes that you have already updated the master firmware on the VEX Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control. VEXnet is an 802.11 WiFi communication system between the VEX Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control.

*No wireless access point needed; each VEXnet pair makes its own private network

+

−

*Hundreds of robots can operate at once; every VEXnet robot has a hidden unique ID

+

−

*Optional tether for wired communication

+

−

*Optional 9V battery backup to maintain wireless link during a main 7.2V power loss

+

−

*LED scheme displays the status of the Robot, VEXnet link, and Game (Competition Mode)

+

−

−

1. Begin by connecting both the Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control to charged batteries.

−

−

−

1a. Connect a 7.2V robot battery to the Cortex, but do not power it ON.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.05.00.png]]

−

−

−

1b. Remove the battery cover plate on the remote control. Install 6 AAA batteries, and replace the battery cover plate. Do not power the remote control ON.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.05.16.png]]

−

−

−

2. Tether the USB port on the VEXnet Remote Control to the USB port on the Cortex using a USB A-to-A cable.

−

−

−

2a. Plug one end of the USB A-to-A cable into the USB port on the VEXnet Remote Control.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.05.30.png]]

−

−

−

2b. Plug the other end of the USB A-to-A cable into the USB port on the VEX Cortex.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.05.48.png]]

−

−

−

3. Power the Cortex ON. After a few seconds, ROBOT and VEXnet LEDs will blink green, indicating that the Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control have successfully paired

−

−

−

3a. Turn the Cortex ON<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.07.00.png]]

−

−

−

3b.The ROBOT and VEXnet LEDs will blink green once the Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control have successfully paired. The GAME LED will also blink green if a program is stored on your Cortex.<br />

−

[[File:DSCF8674.jpg]]

−

−

−

4. Turn the Cortex OFF.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.06.15.png]]

−

−

−

5. Remove the USB A-to-A cable from the VEXnet Remote Control and Cortex.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.06.42.png]]

−

−

−

6. Insert VEXnet USB Keys into both the VEXnet Remote Control and Cortex.<br />

−

[[File:DSCF8692.jpg]]

−

−

−

Note: It does not matter which VEXnet USB Key you insert into the Cortex versus the VEXnet Remote Control. Pairing the Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control establishes the link; the VEXnet USB Keys act as antennas for the link.

−

−

7. Power the Cortex and Remote Control ON. After roughly 15 seconds, the ROBOT and VEXnet LED’s will blink green, indicating that the VEXnet communication link has been established.

−

−

−

7a. Turn the Cortex ON<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.07.00.png]]

−

−

−

7b. Turn the VEXnet Remote Control ON<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_17.07.19.png]]

−

−

−

7c. After roughly 15 seconds, the ROBOT and VEXnet status LEDs will start blinking green. With the VEXnet link established, you should power OFF your Cortex and VEXnet Remote Control to preserve battery.<br />

'''Solution:''' Push and hold CONFIG button for about 5 seconds, until the status LEDs starts blinking green. Release it, wait for another 5 seconds, and then turn the VEXnet Remote Control OFF and then back ON. If that fails, download the VEXnet Joystick Firmware using ROBOTC.

−

−

'''Issue:''' Yellow or red ROBOT light on the Cortex

−

'''Solution:''' Make sure you are using fully charged Robot battery.

−

−

'''Issue:''' Yellow or red ROBOT light on the VEXnet Remote Control, even though they are both green on the Cortex.

−

'''Solution:''' Power cycle both the VEXnet Remote Control and CORTEX.

−

|}

<br />

<br />

+

3) Clicking the Add License button will bring up a 'Add New ROBOTC License' window. From here you must first select which type of license you have and then enter your License ID and Password (to see the password characters as you type, uncheck the 'mask' checkbox). <br />

−

=== VEXnet Remote Control Calibration ===

−

{|width="740px"

−

|-

−

|This document contains the procedure for calibrating the VEXnet Remote Control joysticks. <span style="color: red;">Some steps are time-sensitive, so it’s recommended that you read through the instructions once before following along.</span>

−

The VEXnet Remote Control includes two joysticks (each having an X and Y-axis), 8 buttons on the front, and 4 additional trigger buttons on the top. Inside, there is also 3-Axis accelerometer, capable of providing X-Y-Z acceleration values. Values from the joysticks, buttons, and accelerometer are sent as a constant stream of information over VEXnet to the robot, enabling a user to control the robot in real-time. To ensure that the VEXnet Remote Control sends out accurate joystick values, the joysticks must be calibrated before their first use, and after any firmware updates are applied to the remote control.

+

[[File:Activating_Add_Select.png]]

−

You will need:

+

[[File:Activating_Add_Activate.png]]

−

*A VEXnet Remote Control with batteries

+

−

*A VEX Cortex with robot battery

+

−

*A small Allen wrench (1/16” or smaller) or paper clip

+

−

−

1. Power on the VEXnet Remote Control and VEX Cortex. Allow them to sync over VEXnet.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.10.44.png]]

−

−

−

2. Press and hold the 6U trigger button.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.12.05.png]]

−

−

−

3. While keeping the 6U trigger button pressed in, use your Allen wrench or paper clip to press in the internal CONFIG button until the JOYSTICK LED blinks red and green.

−

−

−

3a. While still pressing in the 6U trigger button, use an Allen wrench or paper clip to press in the CONFIG button.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.12.19.png]]

−

−

−

3b. Once the JOYSTICK LED begins to blink red and green, release both the 6U and CONFIG buttons.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.12.33.png]]

−

−

−

−

<span style="color: red;">Important - Time Sensitive Instructions<br />There is a 10 second time limit to complete steps 4 and 5. If they are not completed in time, the calibration process will timeout and the VEXnet LED will blink red briefly.</span>

−

−

4. Move both joysticks through their full ranges of motion. When the remote control detects that the joysticks have been fully rotated, the JOYSTICK LED stops blinking red and green, and switches to a solid green.

−

−

4a. Move the joysticks through their full ranges of motion - Up, Down, Left, Right, and in a circle.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.12.49.png]]

−

−

−

4b. Once the remote control detects that the joysticks have been fully rotated, the JOYSTICK LED switches to solid green, indicating that you can stop moving the joysticks.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.13.09.png]]

−

−

−

5. Press the 8U button to save the joystick calibration on your remote control. The JOYSTICK LED will blink green for a few seconds.<br />

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_15.13.27.png]]

−

−

−

Additional Information

−

*If the calibration is not saved, the process will timeout after 10 seconds and the VEXnet LED will blink red.

−

*To cancel a calibration, press the 7U button. The calibration process will be discontinued and the VEXnet LED will blink red.

−

*Once the calibration is discontinued or saved, all of the remote control LEDs will resume their normal function.

−

*The joysticks must be calibrated any time the firmware on the remote control is downloaded.

−

|}

<br />

<br />

+

4) Once the information is entered, click the 'Activate Online' button to activate the product. If you wish to activate multiple products, simply repeat the process. You may also start a trial of any of the ROBOTC versions (assuming the trial has not already been activated on the computer) by selecting the program you'd wish to try and selecting "Start Trial". <br />

−

=== Sample Programs ===

−

{|width="740px"

−

|-

−

|One of the best ways to start working with ROBOTC and learning how to program is to look at already developed programs. ROBOTC comes with over 75 sample programs to help the programmer learn how to program their robotics controllers.

−

−

To access these sample programs, open the "Sample Programs" folder by going to the "File" menu and selecting "Open Sample Program."<br />

−

[[File:sampleprograms_menu.png]]

−

−

−

Inside of the sample programs folder, there are a number of samples organized by topic. ROBOTC will automatically open the sample programs folder of the platform you currently have selected.<br />

−

[[File:sampleprogram_files.png]]

−

−

−

Just double click on one of the sample programs to open it up and learn more about ROBOTC programming.<br />

|}

|}

<br />

<br />

−

=== Compiling and Downloading ===

+

== Select Platform Type ==

{|width="740px"

{|width="740px"

|-

|-

−

|ROBOTC is considered to be an "Integrated Development Environment." This means that ROBOTC has a custom text editor for developing code that will assist the programmer by color coding different potions of code to differentiate between integers, reserved words, functions and parameters.<br />

+

|Open the "Robot" menu in ROBOTC and hover your cursor over the "Platform Type" menu option. This will open up the platform select menu. Select the platform you wish you use with ROBOTC. You can change the platform type at any time.

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-14_11.33.22.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

ROBOTC also contains a compiler for turning this user generated code in a byte-code language that the different controller platforms can understand. To run the compiler, access the compile function from the "Robot" menu.<br />

+

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-14_11.33.57.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

When the compiler runs, ROBOTC will check your program for errors and warnings that would cause your program to not run properly on the robot. Rather than send this broken code to your robot, ROBOTC will inform you of these errors so they can be corrected.

+

−

+

−

In the example below:

+

−

*The reserved word 'motor' was incorrectly typed as 'Motor', generating a warning. A warning tells the user that they've created an error, but ROBOTC is able to correct this error itself when the program is sent to the controller. A program with warning will compile successfully, but users should use good programming practice to avoid warnings. Warnings are denoted by a yellow "X".

+

−

*The code on line 5 is missing a semicolon, which is generating an error. An error will prevent the program from being sent to the controller. ROBOTC will do its best to explain what the error to assist the user. In this example, ROBOTC is informing the user they left a semicolon off a line of their program which is preventing the program from being compiled. Errors are denoted by a red "X".<br />

+

−

[[Image:SS-2010-10-14_11.34.58.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

Before downloading code to your robot, you should verify that the "VEX Cortex Download Method" matches your setup.<br />

+

−

[[Image:SS-2010-10-14_11.35.39.png]]

+

−

+

−

+

−

'''Option 1: Download Using VEXnet or USB'''<br />

+

−

With this option selected, ROBOTC will download ROBOTC firmware and programs to your Cortex using a VEXnet or USB connection. In this mode, when the Cortex is powered ON it will look for a VEXnet or USB connection before running your program. (The Communication Port > Automatic Selection option in the ROBOTC Preferences should be selected if you plan on switching between VEXnet and USB as your download method.)

+

−

+

−

'''Option 2: Download Using USB Only'''<br />

+

−

With this option selected, ROBOTC will download firmware and programs to your Cortex using only the USB connection. In this mode, when the Cortex is powered ON it will immediately run your program. This option is NOT recommended if you are using the VEXnet Joysticks to download to the Cortex, or remotely control it.

+

−

+

−

'''Option 3: Download for Competition (VEXnet)'''<br />

+

−

This option disables the ROBOTC debugger, and is not recommended for classroom use.

+

−

+

−

''Note: Switching between Download Modes may require you to power cycle your Cortex before it takes effect.''

+

−

+

−

Once your program has successfully compiled and you've selected the appropriate Download Method, you can send the program to the controller by clicking the "Compile and Download Program" option under the "Robot" menu. Note: Your robot must be turned on and connected to the computer before you can download a program.<br />

+

−

[[Image:SS-2010-10-14_11.36.04.png]]

+

+

ROBOTC for MINDSTORMS has support for five different platforms:

+

* LEGO Mindstorms NXT

+

* LEGO Mindstorms NXT + TETRIX/MATRIX

+

* Natural Language (NXT)

+

* Natural Language (TETRIX/MATRIX)

+

* Robot Algebra (NXT)

−

Once the download starts, a "Download Progress" bar will appear. This bar will show the status of the transfer of the compiled byte-code to the controller.<br />

+

Before you use ROBOTC, make sure to select which platform you are currently using (in this example, the Lego Mindstorms/TETRIX/MATRIX platform is selected).

−

[[File:SS-2010-10-13_14.05.46.png]]

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Once the download finishes, ROBOTC's built in debugger will be launched. There will be a number of windows that launch, such as the Global Variables window, the Devices window and the Program Debug window. You can start your programs execution by clicking the "Start" button on the "Program Debug" window. Learn more about these windows in the 'Debugger' section of the help file.<br />

Revision as of 20:35, 22 October 2012

Contents

System Requirements

ROBOTC requires basic system specifications to run properly. The development environment is not processor intensive, but the interactive debugger may slow down computer performance on older machines.

System Requirements:
Intel® Pentium® processor or compatible, 800 MHz minimum
Windows XP Professional or Home Edition with Service Pack 2 or greater
256MB of RAM minimum
Up to 30MB of available hard disk space
1 available USB port
Compatible Bluetooth adapter (optional)

ROBOTC will not run natively in any other operating system other than Microsoft Windows. ROBOTC will run with a Virtualization client on a Apple Macintosh. ROBOTC has been tested with VMWare Fusion, Parallels Desktop, and Apple's Boot Camp. You will still need to download/install device drivers found on your purchased CD or on the ROBOTC website.

Downloading ROBOTC

Before we start programming in ROBOTC, we need to first download and install the client. This can be done by navigating to ROBOTC's website ( https://www.robotc.net) and selecting the 'Downloads' tab.

1) From the ROBOTC website, select the individual robotics platform you wish to program on. If you want to use multiple platforms or accidentally download the wrong version, you can manually activate and choose another platform thorugh the ROBOTC program. When you get to the correct platform page, click on the 'Download ROBOTC for X version x.xx' to start the download process:

2) At this point click the 'Save' button to start downloading ROBOTC. You may get a warning pop-up from either Windows, your antivirus program, or both. This is to warn you that some programs downloaded from the internet can be malicious and to use care before running them; click allow to start the download.

Installing and Uninstalling ROBOTC

Installing

1) Once the program is done downloading, navigate to the Downloads folder on your computer and start the ROBOTC installer. You may have to right click on the installer and select the "Run as Administrator" depending on individual computer restrictions; ROBOTC must be installed with administrator privileges.

2) Before you can proceed, you must read over and accept the End User License Agreement. If you agree to the End User Agreement, check the "I accept" and then the "Next" button to continue the installation.

3) Next, select where you would like ROBOTC to install to. The default location is C:/Program Files (x86)/Robomatter Inc/ROBOTC Development Environment.

4) The installer will ask you to confirm your settings. If everything looks correct, click "Install" to being the installation process. The installer will then begin copying files from the installer to your computer. Please wait until this is complete.

5) The installer will inform you of when the installation is complete. Click the "Finish" button to complete your install.

6) Right-Click on the ROBOTC icon and select "Run as Administrator" to run ROBOTC as an administrator (assuming the user account has administrator privileges). You will only need to do this one time.

Depending on which platform you are installing, ROBOTC may also install additional drivers unique to each platform. If for any reason the drivers are not downloaded and installed properly they can be downloaded and installed manually from the ROBOTC website.

Uninstalling

To uninstall ROBOTC, follow the steps below:

1) Open the Control Panel from your Windows "Start Menu"

2) Inside of the Control Panel, select "Programs -> Uninstall a Program" or "Add or Remove Programs" (depending on view settings).

3) Navigate through the "Add or Remove Programs" list until you find the version of ROBOTC that you wish to uninstall. Press the "Uninstall" button.

4) Windows will start the uninstall process. When the window below disappears and you are returned to the "Add or Remove Programs" list, ROBOTC has been successfully uninstalled.

Building Licenses

There is a special type of ROBOTC license called a Building License . These licenses do not require an online activation but rather have a unique building license file that must be installed with the software in order for ROBOTC to work properly. When you order a building license you will be sent an email with a unique building license file.

To activate ROBOTC with a building license, download and run the installer as normal. Once the program is installed, copy the building license file into the ROBOTC directory (typically C:/Program Files (x86)/Robomatter Inc/ROBOTC Developement Environment).

One of the advantages of building licenses is that they help make automated installs easy. To roll out ROBOTC to multiple computers using a building license, make sure the base image has ROBOTC installed and the building license files in the correct directory. As long as those two conditions are met, ROBOTC should be active on each computer the image is rolled out to with no futher action required.

There is, however, an exception. If ROBOTC is being run from a centralized network, each computer that needs to access ROBOTC must also install a Network Dependencies package (available from the ROBOTC downloads page). The building license file must also be properly installed on the network in order for networked computers to access ROBOTC.

Activate Online

To continue using ROBOTC past the 30 day trial period, you must purchase a ROBOTC license and then activate the license on each computer.

To activate ROBOTC, you will need the License ID and Password that was sent to you during the purchase process.

If you purchased a ROBOTC license online, the License ID and Password were sent to the email address specified.

If you ordered the CD-ROM version of ROBOTC, the License ID and Password are printed on the CD label.

If you are Activating the ROBOTC license on computers with internet access, follow the Activation instructions below.

NOTE: ROBOTC must be activated on each individual computer. ROBOTC can no longer be activated offline; the computers must be activated with a working internet connection. Once activation is complete, the computers do not need to remain online to stay activated.

Follow these steps to activate on a computer with internet access:

1) Open ROBOTC and navigate to the Help menu. From there, select 'Manage Licenses -> Add License'. If you do not already have a ROBOTC license, you may purchase one by clicking the 'Purchase License' option.

2) From the Manage License menu, select the 'Add License' button. Note that there is also a greyed out option for "Deactivate License". This allows you to deactivate the license (where applicable; not all licenses can be deactivated) and reactivate it on another computer. Once a license is activated, you can also see the registration information and create a desktop icon for ROBOTC by clikcing on their respective buttons.

3) Clicking the Add License button will bring up a 'Add New ROBOTC License' window. From here you must first select which type of license you have and then enter your License ID and Password (to see the password characters as you type, uncheck the 'mask' checkbox).

4) Once the information is entered, click the 'Activate Online' button to activate the product. If you wish to activate multiple products, simply repeat the process. You may also start a trial of any of the ROBOTC versions (assuming the trial has not already been activated on the computer) by selecting the program you'd wish to try and selecting "Start Trial".

Select Platform Type

Open the "Robot" menu in ROBOTC and hover your cursor over the "Platform Type" menu option. This will open up the platform select menu. Select the platform you wish you use with ROBOTC. You can change the platform type at any time.

ROBOTC for MINDSTORMS has support for five different platforms:

LEGO Mindstorms NXT

LEGO Mindstorms NXT + TETRIX/MATRIX

Natural Language (NXT)

Natural Language (TETRIX/MATRIX)

Robot Algebra (NXT)

Before you use ROBOTC, make sure to select which platform you are currently using (in this example, the Lego Mindstorms/TETRIX/MATRIX platform is selected).